Probable impaction

Pancho is showing classic signs of a bowel impaction - he has a swollen cloaca, is an uncomfortable-looking 'wiggly' shape, and has bright red, forward-pointing gills. Fortunately there are no signs of bloating right now.

I'm not sure what could have caused it. I got rid of the gravel about 9 months ago, although I suppose there could still be some left inside him. Another thing I thought of was that I fed him 2 or 3 mealworms a week or two ago. I knew to crush the jaws but only just read that their shells can be difficult for axolotls to pass.

I know there isn't much I can do to help him but I still have a couple of questions. Firstly, his appetite is as huge as ever but I don't know whether I should feed him or not while he is all clogged up - would this help him or make things worse? Also, what are people's opinions on putting him in the fridge? I realise this won't 'cure' him but could it make him more comfortable?

Any advice much appreciated!

hi
i would definately put him in the fridge this will help destress him and also aids them in going for a poo as they are more relaxed.
dont forget to pop a bottle of dechlorinated water in there with him and cover him with some thing dark.
good luck hope all goes well